There are plans to transform an empty bank in Birkdale village into a trendy restaurant.

Company Expansive Horizons Ltd is behind a a change of use application, so they can move forward with plans to turn the former HSBC bank into The Malt Vault restaurant and bar.

There are also plans for a ground floor extension to the rear of the building , which lays in the heart of Birkdale conservation zone.

And there are plans for an outdoor seating area, on Liverpool Road.

The planning application reads: “The Birkdale premises will be branded as ‘The Malt Valt’ and will encapsulate relaxed upscale dining, together with a high- quality contemporary coffee shop and bar.

“It will offer fresh food, freshly ground espresso-based beverages, fine teas, a range of bottled beer, local draft ales, cocktails and a selection of wines and spirits, including malt whisky.”

It is envisaged that the bar will be open from 9am to midnight, from Monday to Sundays including Bank Holidays, and later at the weekend.

Food will be served from 9am to 9pm and deliveries will take place between 8am and 4pm.

The planning statements suggests that the interior of the building is already suited to the plans, and only minor modifications will be required.

The applicant argues that the unit is unlikely to be used by a bank again, and that the plans represent the best possible use for the site.

It reads: “The overall development will add considerably to the daytime and evening local economy, and will enhance the strength, function, attractiveness and the vitality and viablity fo Birkdale centre.

“The proposed development and change of use is therefore of fundamental to the conservation area, as it will bring the important, vacant and otherwise redundant building back into viable and beneficial long term use, and will safeguard its use.”